The Ranch Swimming pool and Palapa

Out on Eldora Road, this spot has a low-key, backyard-party kind of vibe that works well for families who just want to cool off without a lot of fuss. The palapa gives it that Rio Grande Valley feel — shade, casual seating, the whole deal. It’s right by Melly’s Event Center, so it’s easy to tack onto a day that’s already got something going on. Wheelchair accessible, which isn’t a given around here, so that’s worth knowing.